iFi NEO Stream 3, iFi ZEN Stream 3 And iFi NEO iDSD 3
IFI AUDIO NEO STREAM 3, ZEN STREAM 3 AND NEO IDSD 3 ANNOUNCED
iFi Audio has introduced a new generation of digital components comprising the iFi NEO Stream 3, iFi ZEN Stream 3 and iFi NEO iDSD 3.
The three models cover streaming, DAC and headphone amplification duties, and form an updated range aimed at integrating high-resolution network audio into a wide variety of systems. Across the range, iFi has revised internal circuitry, updated software and user interface, and added JVCKENWOOD’s K2 and K2HD processing.
IFI NEO STREAM 3
The NEO Stream 3 is positioned as a fully integrated network streamer with an onboard DAC stage derived from the earlier NEO iDSD series. It supports PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512, and includes Qobuz Connect, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect and AirPlay 2 compatibility alongside local network playback. The design incorporates upgraded capacitors, Active Noise Cancellation on USB, iPurifier technology on S/PDIF outputs and the OptiBox optical network isolation system to reduce noise from wired connections.
IFI ZEN STREAM 3
The ZEN Stream 3 is a streaming-only unit intended for use with an external DAC. It offers PCM up to 384kHz and DSD256 support, using the same new streaming platform as the NEO Stream 3 with app control and web-based interface options. Hardware revisions include updated power circuitry and capacitor selection, while connectivity includes digital outputs with iPurifier and Active Noise Cancellation to maintain signal integrity.
IFI NEO IDSD 3
The NEO iDSD 3 is the latest version of iFi’s compact DAC and headphone amplifier. It uses a Burr-Brown DAC design with separate signal paths for PCM and DSD, supporting PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512. The headphone stage is rated at up to 2,532mW RMS (5,551mW maximum), and the unit includes balanced and single-ended outputs. Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity supports codecs including aptX Lossless, LDAC and LHDC, alongside wired USB, coaxial and optical inputs.
IFI NEO STREAM 3, IFI ZEN STREAM 3 AND IFI NEO IDSD 3 PROCESSING AND SOFTWARE
All three models incorporate K2 or K2HD processing developed by JVCKENWOOD, designed to restore high-frequency harmonics and detail lost during recording or compression. The NEO Stream 3 and NEO iDSD 3 include K2HD upsampling to 192kHz, while the ZEN Stream 3 uses the K2 mode without upsampling. Each model also supports iFi’s Nexis control app for remote operation and firmware updates, and features revised software platforms for setup and playback management.
The new models are intended to cover a range of system roles. The NEO Stream 3 is an all-in-one streaming and DAC solution for direct integration into a HiFi system, while the ZEN Stream 3 focuses on adding network playback to existing DAC-based setups. The NEO iDSD 3 can be used as a standalone DAC and headphone amplifier or as part of a wider system, with line-level outputs and analogue inputs included for integration with other sources.
IFI NEO STREAM 3, IFI ZEN STREAM 3 AND IFI NEO IDSD 3 PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
The iFi Audio NEO Stream 3 and NEO iDSD 3 are each priced at £999. The iFi Audio ZEN Stream 3 is priced at £399.
HiFi PiG Says: A fab-looking new generation of products from iFi that will keep HeadFi fans happy!
